How big?

I felt the need to try some drawing, sticking to white, black, and a mid tone (the paper). I wanted to focus on line direction and using lines to create value and focus. I also wanted to start with a figure, and thought I would tackle a face - an area where I have a lot to learn. The drawings below were the result. Several hours each - white and black charcoal pencil on 18 x 24 inch kraft paper. I chose this face because I was interested in the intense shadow and the contour over his face and the bridge of his nose. It was fascinating to realize how little hint you need to provide in the dark to get expression. I also wanted to understand what gave his chin and jaw the feeling they conveyed. I picture this man doing hard work in the hot sun, maybe on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi.

The other drawing was a playful idea I’ve had about scale. Large rabbit? Small elephants? Which do you see?

The white in these photos came out too intense - too blue and sharp. The white on the originals is warmer and has considerably more gradual intensity over the drawings. So I’m not really happy with these photos, but I doubt my camera can do better in another attempt, so I’m going to leave be.